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Couple Arrested After Scamming Residents

(PETERSBURG) - The couple arrested Thursday for scamming their way into people’s homes and then stealing valuables has been identified as Rita and Justin Fraley, 324 Second St., Plainville.

During execution of a search warrant for the Fraleys' home and car, Petersburg Police and Daviess County Sheriff's deputies recovered an estimated 500 pieces of jewelry, six empty purses and various jewelry boxes. Authorities are identifying the recovered items and are in the process of returning them to their owners, but they're uncertain if all victims are known.

The search warrant was issued after the couple allegedly took a prescription pill bottle and jewelry from elderly Pike County citizens. Police had been investigating multiple complaints of a male and female in their 20s or 30s entering the homes of elderly citizens under the pretext of soliciting money for charity or for the benefit of their children. During such visits, prescription pills, money and jewelry were stolen after the suspects asked to use the bathroom. Other thefts were facilitated by requests for the children to use the restroom or have a glass of water.

The Fraleys were arrested on preliminary charges of burglary, theft, neglect of a dependent and habitual felon. They're being held at the Pike County Jail pending arraignment.

Anyone who's been the victim of a similar crime or who let the Fraleys into their home should contact Cpl. Chad Tharp at the Petersburg Police Department, 354-6024, or the Pike County Sheriff's Department, 354-6024.

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